Williams fits handily into role on defense for Dynamo

When defender Sheanon Williams was traded to the Dynamo in the heart of Houston's sweltering summer, he feared the worst with his chronic problem with migraines.

Williams had migraines about twice a month during his five years playing for the Philadelphia Union, so he expected them to continue and perhaps increase in the humidity.

But that has not been the case. Instead, his play has given headaches to Dynamo opponents.

"It has been real hot down here," Williams, 25, said. "The coaching staff and medical staff do a great job of making sure the guys stay hydrated throughout practice and even before. Right now (my migraines) are on a good spell."

His form is on a good spell, too. The Dynamo hope that continues when they host Real Salt Lake at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.

Ever since being thrust into the starting lineup July 23, Williams has been a key contributor. He has played all 90 minutes in each of the Dynamo's seven matches since.

When he first took the field two days after joining the team, it was mostly out of necessity because injuries and suspensions had depleted the back line.

Williams quickly showed he had to be in the lineup no matter what.

Providing a spark

As the season has advanced, coach Owen Coyle has asked the wide defenders to get forward to help the attack. Both of Williams' assists with the Dynamo have come when he advanced to the offensive third.

Against San Jose on Aug. 8, he ran onto a Boniek Garcia pass while flanked by a defender and hit a first-touch cross to the face of the goal. Alex finished it to give the Dynamo the winning goal in the 76th minute.

Williams had a similar assist in the Dynamo's last game, a 2-0 victory over first-place Vancouver.

Central defender David Horst said Williams has fit in seamlessly from day one, noting Williams plays a difficult position.

"Playing in Houston makes it 10 times more difficult because of the heat and humidity," Horst said. "I think Sheanon has iron lungs because he gets up and down that field for 90 minutes and never gets tired. I can always depend on him getting involved in the offense, and when he's done that part he can get back and play defense. Not all outside defenders are like that, and he's done a great job."

Williams will hope to keep it up Saturday as the Dynamo try to build on their recent home success. They are 6-0-1 in their last seven MLS matches at BBVA Compass Stadium. The Dynamo need to keep that momentum if they are to make a playoff push. They are in eighth place in the Western Conference and six points out of the last postseason berth.

Different 'team style'

If the Dynamo are going to get back to the playoffs Williams likely will play a pivotal role in a new place, which has been more pleasant than anyone could have expected.

"(When you get to a new team) you have to get used to new players and different playing styles," Williams said. "The team style is different here.

"The guys have done a good job of welcoming me, and the coaching staff has made sure I know what my role is."